Mandarin Orange Sweet Potatoes(By Dear Friend Becky Jones)
A delightful sweet potato casserole with mandarin oranges, brown sugar, rum, and pecans, perfect for holiday tables and comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Whip together the cooked sweet potatoes, 2 tablespoons of melted margarine, 4 tablespoons of packed brown sugar, dark rum, and salt.
- Fold in one small can of drained mandarin oranges and turn the mixture into a buttered casserole dish.
- Arrange the remaining mandarin oranges in a spiral fashion on top of the casserole.
- Combine the rest of the margarine, brown sugar, and chopped pecans, then spread this mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes until heated through and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of orange juice or a bit of cinnamon to the sweet potato mixture. If you don't have dark rum, you can substitute it with orange extract or omit it altogether for a non-alcoholic version. Using fresh sweet potatoes is a great alternative to canned ones for a more authentic flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats such as turkey or ham, making it an excellent choice for holiday meals. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh salad or some steamed vegetables. It can also be enjoyed as a sweet side dish for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mandarin Orange Sweet Potatoes(By Dear Friend Becky Jones) contains roughly 619 calories, with 8g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (39% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1180mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh mandarin oranges instead of canned?
Yes, fresh mandarin oranges can be used if you peel and segment them. Just make sure to adjust the quantity to match the volume of canned oranges, as fresh ones can vary in size.
Is there a vegan alternative to this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the margarine with a plant-based butter and use maple syrup or coconut sugar instead of brown sugar to keep it vegan. Ensure that the rum is also vegan-friendly.
How can I make this dish more festive?
To add a festive touch, consider garnishing the top with additional chopped pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon. You could also incorporate some dried cranberries for color and flavor, making it a delightful centerpiece for holiday gatherings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).